The University of Utah has recognized Associate Professor Kevin Hanson of the Department of Film & Media Arts with a Distinguished Teaching Award. 

From the nomination letter: 

“Professor Hanson has been an esteemed teacher-scholar for the past 30 years and a transformational voice for the Department of Film & Media Arts through his teaching and academic leadership. During his career here, he has established himself as an outstanding teacher whose students have gone onward to much success; an accomplished and internationally known film producer; and a committed and engaged member of the university community, the Salt Lake Valley and Utah community and his professional community.”

Appointed Head of the Film Studies Division of the College of Fine Arts in 2007, Kevin authored a successful petition to the Utah State Board of Regents to approve the change in name and status of that academic unit from a division within the College of Fine Arts to one of five departments in the college. In January 2010, he became the first Chair of the Department of Film & Media Arts, serving until June 31, 2019.

As Chair, in 2016/2017 Kevin authored a successful proposal to add Film & Media Arts to the curriculum of the University of Utah’s Asia Campus in South Korea. He still serves as a liaison to the UAsia board and advisor to the current department chair on UAsia matters. Kevin holds a BA in Fine Arts (painting & drawing) from Westminster College and an MFA in Art (filmmaking) from the University of Utah. He began his teaching career as an NEA Artist in the Schools. Kevin’s career in higher education includes teaching at Wright State University, Ohio University, the University of Utah, and Westminster College. He ran the Management Communication Center for the David Eccles School of Business from 1992 through 1994.

Kevin brings with him an eclectic mix of professional film credits including video production work for business and industry, promotional videos for arts, management, and high-tech organizations. He has worked as a cinematographer and has produced his own narrative, documentary, and experimental film projects.Kevin continues to produce films across the fine arts disciplines with colleagues and former students.

Join us in celebrating this honor for Associate Professor Hanson. Bravo!